Popular Thẻ thông hành JR in Noboribetsu

The Hokkaido Rail Pass primarily covers all JR trains within Hokkaido, including limited express, rapid, and local trains. With this pass, you can enjoy unlimited rides on JR trains within the designated areas during its validity period. This includes the train routes necessary to reach Noboribetsu, such as taking a limited express train from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport to Noboribetsu Station. However, please note that some scenic trains or the Shinkansen may not be covered. It's advisable to confirm the train type before boarding.

The nationwide Japan Rail Pass is mainly for JR lines on Japan's main island and has limited applicability or may require additional tickets for JR trains in Hokkaido. If your primary itinerary is focused on Hokkaido, especially if you plan to visit Noboribetsu, it is recommended to prioritize purchasing the 'Hokkaido Rail Pass.' This pass is specifically designed for the Hokkaido region and can more comprehensively cover JR train travel from major cities like New Chitose Airport and Sapporo to Noboribetsu, offering a more convenient travel experience.

The choice between the Hokkaido Rail Pass and a bus depends on your overall itinerary. If your trip involves multiple cities in Hokkaido and frequent JR train travel, the Hokkaido Rail Pass is a convenient and economical option, saving you the trouble of purchasing individual tickets. However, if your itinerary is confined to Noboribetsu or a single surrounding area, or if you prefer a direct point-to-point transportation method, such as a bus from New Chitose Airport or Sapporo directly to the Noboribetsu Onsen area, it might be more time-efficient and convenient. Buses often go directly to the hot spring town, while JR requires a transfer at Noboribetsu Station.

For winter travel to Noboribetsu, it's recommended to take a JR train to Noboribetsu Station and then transfer to a bus, or take a pre-booked bus directly from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport to Noboribetsu Onsen. Road surfaces can be slippery in winter, so wearing non-slip, warm footwear and clothing is advised. If driving yourself, ensure your vehicle is equipped with snow tires and you have sufficient driving experience. Due to potential weather-related disruptions to train and bus schedules during snowy seasons, it's advisable to check the latest transportation information regularly. Some hot spring inns offer shuttle services, which can be confirmed when booking.

There are primarily two ways to travel from New Chitose Airport to Noboribetsu. The first is by JR train: take the JR Rapid Airport from the airport to Minami-Chitose Station, then transfer to a JR limited express train (such as the 'Lilac' or 'Hokuto' service) to Noboribetsu Station. The total journey time is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. After arriving at Noboribetsu Station, you'll need to take a local bus for about 15 minutes to reach the hot spring area. The second option is by direct bus, which goes directly from the airport to Noboribetsu Onsen. This journey takes about 1 hour, but bus services are less frequent, so booking in advance is recommended.

With the Hokkaido Rail Pass, you can take a JR train to Noboribetsu Station. Jigokudani is located within the Noboribetsu Onsen area, and a transfer is required from Noboribetsu Station to the hot spring area. You can opt to take a local bus (e.g., Donan Bus) to the Noboribetsu Onsen terminal, which takes about 15 minutes. Jigokudani is located near the terminal and is within walking distance. The bus fare is not covered by the Hokkaido Rail Pass. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the station directly to the hot spring area.

If you hold the 'Hokkaido Rail Pass,' you can take limited express trains to Noboribetsu, such as the 'Limited Express Lilac' or 'Limited Express Hokuto,' as these are covered by the pass. These trains run from the direction of Sapporo and New Chitose Airport towards Noboribetsu Station. For the nationwide Japan Rail Pass, you need to confirm if it covers JR Hokkaido lines and if there are any specific train restrictions. Riding limited express trains usually requires seat reservations. It is recommended to make these reservations in advance at a JR station's 'Midori-no-madoguchi' (Green Window) before your departure or upon arrival in Japan to secure your seats.

The Noboribetsu Onsen area offers a variety of accommodation options, primarily traditional Japanese hot spring inns (Ryokan). Many inns feature indoor and outdoor hot spring baths with distinct styles and serve elaborate multi-course Japanese kaiseki dinners. When booking, consider the following practical tips: book well in advance to secure your preferred room type, especially during peak seasons or holidays; check if breakfast and dinner are included, as some packages feature Hokkaido's specialty ingredients; inquire about shuttle services from JR Noboribetsu Station or specific locations, as this can save considerable travel time.

JR limited express train services from Noboribetsu Station to Sapporo Station are quite frequent, primarily operated by the 'Limited Express Hokuto' and 'Limited Express Lilac' services, with approximately one train departing every hour. The journey typically takes between 1 hour and 10 minutes to 1 hour and 25 minutes. It is recommended to check the latest train schedules in real-time via the official JR Hokkaido website or the electronic boards at the station before your departure to ensure accurate and smooth itinerary planning.

The Noboribetsu Onsen area boasts rich natural landscapes and unique experiences. Must-visit attractions include Jigokudani (Hell Valley) with its sulfurous vents, the tranquil and mystical Oyunuma Pond, and the Noboribetsu Bear Park where you can observe brown bears up close. Additionally, the Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura offers an immersive experience of Edo-period Japanese culture. For culinary delights, you can savor fresh seafood dishes, local specialty ramen, and hot spring eggs and desserts cooked using the natural hot spring heat. The hot spring town also features numerous souvenir shops.